Painfully aware at how reliant they remain on the likes of captain Javier Zanetti and fellow veteran Esteban Cambiasso, the Nerazzurri made a statement signing during the January transfer window by acquiring 18-year-old Croatia international Mateo Kovacic from Dinamo Zagreb.

Inter have also long been linked with a move for Paulinho, but Goal.com can exclusively reveal that Inter have now abandoned their pursuit of the Corinthians midfielder and have now identified three even younger alternatives in Taider, van Ginkel and Quintero.

Juventus previously had a 50 per cent stake in Taider but ultimately allowed Bologna to take outright possession of a player that has now firmly established himself as one of the brightest young midfield talents in Serie A over the past year. Consequently, Inter are now poised to make a move, believing that the Rossoblu could be persuaded to part company with the French-born Algeria international for €7 million.

Inter are also confident that a similar bid would secure the services of Quintero, who is currently on loan at Pescara from Atletico Nacional. The Nerazzurri considered making an approach for the 20-year-old Colombian at the turn of the year but stopped short of making an official offer. However, amidst reports of interest from Russia and England, with Manchester City said to be particularly keen, Inter are once again mulling over an offer.

As for van Ginkel, who is regarded as a cross between Mark van Bommel and Wim Jonk, Inter are aware that Vitesse are ready to cash in on the highly-rated Netherlands international. However, the issue is the fee, which is said to be increasing with each passing month.

Consequently, Inter president Massimo Moratti is now carefully considering which move makes the most financial sense for a club that needs to strengthen in several areas this summer.